CitravsHarlequin

Citra and Harlequin are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Harlequin

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

1–1.6 mL

UK

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Harlequin

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PeachPassion fruit

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitMelonLimeFloralGooseberryLychee

Only in Harlequin

Pineapple

Property

PropertyCitraHarlequin
Alpha acid10–15%9–12%
Beta acid3–4.5%7–9%
Co-humulone20–35%27–31%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1–1.6 mL
Myrcene60–70%59–61%
Humulene7–13%4–6%
Caryophyllene5–8%-
Farnesene0–1%9–11%
OriginUnited StatesUK
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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